AwardWinning JawSurgery London

Class 2 jaw surgery for an increased overjet

A class 2 discrepancy means that the lower jaw is notably small and setback, resulting in an increased overjet, wherein the upper teeth appear to protrude forward.

If left untreated, it can lead to problems with chewing, speaking and, sometimes, breathing difficulty. And the lower part of your face may start to look tired and drawn – making you look older than you are.

A slight overjet can often be corrected through non-surgical means, using braces or Invisalign treatment to gradually reposition the lower jaws. However, using orthodontic treatment alone can take years to achieve the desired results – making jaw surgery in London one of the most effective treatment options.

Class 2 corrective jaw surgery can help to align the upper and lower teeth and jaws – preventing discomfort, bone damage, excessive wear of the front teeth and tooth loss.

During your initial consultation for jaw surgery, your oral surgeon will use X-rays, photographs and 3D models to evaluate the severity of your overjet. They can even demonstrate how orthognathic surgery will correct the issue – having a positive impact on your facial function and appearance.

Class 3 jaw surgery for underbite

An underbite is a type of malocclusion where your upper teeth rest behind your bottom teeth when you bite down – causing your lower jaw to protrude and creating the appearance of a more prominent chin.

Orthodontic treatment, such as fixed braces with metal brackets and wires, can be used to treat a mild underbite, straightening the teeth to disguise any misalignment. However, the jaw position will remain the same.

For patients with severe skeletal discrepancies, a combination of orthodontics and maxillofacial surgery or bimaxillary orthognathic surgery will be required to achieve optimum results.

Class 3 jaw surgery is typically performed under general anaesthetic. 

The surgeon will move the bottom jaw bone back into the correct position and bring the top jaw forward. Both the upper and lower jaws will be secured by tiny plates and pins that remain under the gum.

After undergoing jaw surgery for an underbite, small elastic bands are used between the top and bottom brace to allow the bite to settle into the correct occlusion. These may need to stay in place for several months after your orthognathic surgery – but your specialist orthodontist will check and change them to ensure your treatment plan stays on track.